Hiking in Huaraz: Rocotuyoc Lagoon and Frozen Lagoon

Hiking through Huascarán National Park to the Rocotuyoc Lagoon and Frozen Lagoon is an unparalleled adventure. This full-day guided excursion offers a chance to witness the park’s breathtaking landscapes, including magnificent glacier tongues and serene lagoons. With a carefully planned itinerary and a lunch stop in Marcará, hikers can enjoy the natural beauty of the region while facing the challenge of the rugged terrain. To ensure a safe and memorable experience, proper gear is essential.

Key Points

• This hiking excursion takes adventurers to Rocotuyoc Lagoon and Frozen Lagoon near Huaraz, Peru, at an elevation of 4,550 meters.
• The full-day hike is priced at $40 per person, with a maximum of 15 participants, and a Spanish-speaking guide leading the group.
• The hiking route includes Marcará and Huascarán National Park, offering stunning views of glacier tongues, mountain peaks, and cultural heritage sites.
• Flexible booking with no upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind for hikers.
• The hike is challenging and not suitable for certain individuals, requiring proper gear and preparation to navigate the high-altitude terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The highlight of this hiking excursion is the exploration of Rocotuyoc Lagoon and Frozen Lagoon near Huaraz.

The full-day activity is priced at $40 per person and is limited to 15 participants. A Spanish-speaking guide leads the group, which departs at 8:30 am from hotels near Huaraz’s main square.

The route takes hikers through Marcará and Huascarán National Park, culminating at the stunning Rocotuyoc Lagoon situated at 4,550 meters above sea level.

Along the way, you will marvel at glacier tongues, mountain peaks, and even cave paintings.

The tour returns to Huaraz around 5:30 pm.

Booking Information

How flexible are the booking options for this hiking excursion in Huaraz? The booking process is highly accommodating, allowing travelers to reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

Plus, the cancellation policy is generous, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To secure a spot, travelers simply need to check the availability and book in advance, as last-minute reservations may be rescheduled based on capacity.

The flexible booking and cancellation options provide peace of mind for adventurers planning their Huaraz hiking experience.

• Flexible Reservations: Reserve now & pay later; no upfront payment required.

• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Availability: Check for starting times and book in advance; last minute reservations may be rescheduled based on availability.

Itinerary Details

The hiking excursion begins with a pick-up at 8:30 am from hotels near the main square of Huaraz.

The route travels north through Marcará, entering Huascarán National Park, and hikers will trek through the Paqcharuri ravine to reach Rocotuyoc Lagoon at an altitude of 4,550 meters.

Highlights along the way include views of a glacier tongue, Paccharaju, Bayoraju, Akillpo, the Paqchruri waterfall, and cave paintings.

After the hike, the group will stop in Marcará for a self-arranged lunch before returning to Huaraz by around 5:30 pm.

Highlights of the Hike

As hikers traverse the Paqcharuri ravine, they’re treated to breathtaking vistas of the glacier tongue, the towering peaks of Paccharaju and Bayoraju, and the cascading Paqchruri waterfall.

Along the way, they’ll spot:

• Cave paintings that offer a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage

• The serene Rocotuyoc Lagoon, nestled at an elevation of 4,550 meters

• The awe-inspiring Frozen Lagoon, where the icy landscape reflects the surrounding mountains

These natural wonders, combined with the thrill of hiking through the Huascarán National Park, make this excursion a truly unforgettable experience.

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Lunch Stop in Marcará

After taking in the breathtaking vistas of the Rocotuyoc Lagoon and the Frozen Lagoon, hikers stop for lunch in the town of Marcará.

Here, they can choose from a variety of local eateries, with the average cost of a meal being around 30 soles.

This stop provides an opportunity to refuel and recharge before continuing the hike back to Huaraz.

Hikers can explore the charming town, sample traditional Peruvian cuisine, and soak in the local culture during this midday break.

The return journey to Huaraz is expected around 5:30 pm, completing the day’s hiking adventure.

Return to Huaraz

From Marcará, the group heads back to Huaraz, arriving around 5:30 pm.

The return journey provides:

Scenic views of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range, a chance to reflect, and time to prepare for the next day’s activities.

• Scenic views of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range

• A chance to reflect on the day’s adventure

• Time to prepare for the next day’s activities

Participants can use this time to rest, grab a bite to eat, and get ready for the next leg of their Huaraz exploration.

The tour ends with safe drop-offs at the hotels near the main square, concluding a memorable day of hiking and discovering the natural wonders of the Rocotuyoc Lagoon and Frozen Lagoon.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a Spanish-speaking guide, round-trip transportation, a basic first aid kit, and hotel pick-up near the main square.

Entrance to Huascarán National Park (10 soles) is also covered. However, lunch (average cost: 30 soles) and any extra expenses aren’t included.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Participants are advised to bring a passport or ID, hat, camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, cash, and hiking pants.

Alcohol and drugs are prohibited. The tour begins when weather permits, and an active WhatsApp number is required for communication.

Important Considerations

Certain groups may find this hiking tour unsuitable. The excursion isn’t recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Participants should consider the following:

• Challenging terrain and high altitude (up to 4,550 meters) may pose risks for some.

• Appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking shoes, is essential.

• Communication via an active WhatsApp number is required.

Prohibited items include alcohol and drugs. The tour operates weather-permitting, so flexibility is advised.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Hike?

Yes, participants are welcome to bring their own snacks for the hike. The activity overview doesn’t specify any restrictions on outside food, so bringing personal snacks is allowed as long as they don’t contain alcohol or prohibited items.

Is There a Restroom Available Along the Trail?

There are no restrooms available along the trail. Hikers should plan accordingly and use the facilities before the hike begins. The tour does not include stops for restroom breaks during the day.

Can I Extend the Hike to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit additional sites. Inquire with the guide about options to customize the hike and see more of the area’s natural attractions for an additional fee.

Are Trekking Poles Recommended for This Hike?

Trekking poles are recommended for this hike due to the high elevation and uneven terrain. They can provide extra stability and support, especially on the descent. Bringing trekking poles is a good idea to enhance your hiking experience.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a private group. The activity overview states the group size is limited to 15 participants, so a private group booking can be arranged.

The Sum Up

The hike to Rocotuyoc Lagoon and Frozen Lagoon in Huascarán National Park offers an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Trekking through the magnificent landscapes, hikers can enjoy the challenge of the rugged terrain while marveling at the stunning glaciers and serene lagoons. With a well-planned itinerary and the proper gear, visitors can have a safe and memorable experience exploring the natural beauty of this incredible region.

You can check availability for your dates here: